60 years on - the little boy who ran away | Documentary Idea

by Michael
(Bundaberg Queensland Australia)

At 10 years old 'J' ran away from home. This was a practice run. As a young man he served time in the army rather than jail time for some trouble he got mixed up with. When his time was up he went out to sea in small sailing boats and spent decades in the South Pacific. 'J' worked where he could and lived on his wits to survive and pursue his cruising lifestyle. Now 70 he still lives on the streets surviving on his wits. The doco interviews 'J' and follows him around to see how he gets by. It also listens to his reminiscences and dreams to get back on the water and sail in his sunset years.

Comments for 60 years on - the little boy who ran away | Documentary Idea

Thanks Michael. This almost sounds like a movie idea. Is this the story of a real person named 'J' that you know or is this a made up character? Do you have any more details that explain your documentary idea more fully? Sounds intriguing!

Dec 23, 2011Rating

reply to commentby: Michael

'J' is a real person who has some amazing tales to tell complete with photos. In a way he is a Peter Pan type with a teen age personality. What excites me is that there are any number of angles 'J's story could be framed.

Dec 23, 2011Rating

too coolby: Desktop Documentaries

Too cool, Michael. 'J' sounds like an amazing character. Are you thinking of filming this story yourself or are you hoping for some help? Sounds like all you need is a good interview with your subject and you're on your way!

Dec 24, 2011Rating

reply to commentby: Michael

Although I have had experience in stills photography way back in the film days, movies are something I have just started. So I lack experience in this area but am fairly confident with lighting etc. Unless there are people in my area to collaborate I guess I'll push forward on my own. My first and only camcorder is a Panasonic wx10, bought for its weather resistance since I intend to do some sailing soon ( www.barnabasvoyage.com ). I still have tripods etc from photography days but other than that it will be fairly low tech and raw so I hope I can do 'J's story justice and honour his trust in me to tell it.

I just wanted to say that I think your website is amazing. I am a beginner with an idea, and the info and articles on your website are easy to understand and answer many questions I have. I can't wait to start filming!

--Sarah (Sydney, Australia)

I am a professional filmmaker, and I applaud this site for detailing the ABC's of documentary filmmaking. It serves as my own checklist as I continue making my own films... Thanks!